11/21/2022
A few weeks ago, we read in the Torah how, just before Noah and the flood, the world was filled with violent hatred. After the flood, God sent a rainbow, a powerful symbol to mark peace, and a covenant that God would not again destroy the world. In the rainbow, rather than fighting with one another, all the colors were bound together in light and love.
Attempting to rupture that unity, the beauty of the rainbow, is an affront to God. And this is what occurred this weekend with the attack in Colorado Springs, where at least 5 people were murdered and 25 people were wounded. This attack was like a searing echo from the attack at the Pulse Nightclub in 2016 where 49 people were murdered and 53 people were wounded.
We must call out and condemn such acts of hatred, and we must work to help all of God's children come together, as is represented in the symbol of the rainbow.
In our Jewish community, we are blessed with Keshet, a national organization that works for full LGBTQ equality in Jewish life. Keshet has been a wonderful partner for Adath Israel and for individuals and community organizations across the country. It would be a mitzvah for us to support them at this time:
https://www.keshetonline.org
May the memories of those lost be for a blessing, and may all the wounded be aided in their healing. May threats and violence towards our people and towards any of God's children cease. And may the One who makes peace above, help us to make peace below.
L'Shalom
Rabbi Moshe Smolkin
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